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Summer of Play

This summer, enjoy Hardwick’s top tier Orchard of Play!

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

There are interactive games for everyone at Hardwick’s bigger and better Summer of Play!

Take a trip back in time to enjoy some Elizabethan themed entertainment activities, including: a chance to don a costume and showcase your favourite stories or moves in one of our stages, make a tune on our music station, or challenge a friend to a game of giant chess.

Engage with the natural world at the Nature Nook which will be a treat for the senses! From rustling up new recipes in our mud kitchen to what you can feel as you explore our new barefoot walk, there will be lots to explore, learn and discover.

For the more competitive kids, watch them compete in races, hurdles, football, tennis and badminton. Or why not set up an archery competition and see if you can find the next Robin Hood!

Let's not forget the little ones, the Tot’s Spot is a haven of soft play, bean bags, cushions and relaxed games, perfect for young families or siblings wanting to play together.

For non-members of the National Trust, or visitors without a general admission ticket to the House and Gardens, the Wider Estate admission fees apply:

• Adult: £6.00

• Child: £3.00

• Family (2 adults, 2 children): £15.00

• Family (1 adult, 2 children): £9.00

Summer of Play is sponsored by Starling Bank.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

The basics

Meeting point

The activity zones will be the North Orchard, please proceed to Visitor reception as normal and you’ll be directed on where to go.

What to bring and wear

The activity zones are all outdoors, please dress for the Great British weather! Wellies may be needed if visiting after heavy rainfall and suncream for those extra warm days.

Upcoming events

Event

May Half Term at Hardwick 

Come out to play in May! From maypole merriment to building your very own Hardwick, there’s something to keep all the kids entertained during half term.

Event summary

on
1 Jun 2025
at
09:30 to 17:30
Event

Material Power: Rewoven 

Material Power continues in 2025, displaying 16 contemporary textile artworks amongst the internationally renowned textile collection.

Event summary

on
1 Jun to 31 Oct 2025
at
11:00 to 15:30
+ 152 other dates or times
Event

Guided by Nature: Nature Walk 

Ramble through the lower parkland on our Ranger led nature walk and discover more about Hardwick butterfly and Grass Snake population.

Event summary

on
2 Jun to 1 Aug 2025
at
10:00 to 12:00
+ 1 other date or time
Event

Walk With Us: Wider Estate Walks 

Discover Hardwick’s longer walking routes on a free guided group walk around the estate. With 7 different walks to choose from, sign up to one or challenge yourself to complete them all!

Event summary

on
3 Jun to 3 Jul 2025
at
10:30 to 13:30
+ 9 other dates or times